JNJ-42165279 is primarily investigated for its potential therapeutic applications in the field of mental health, particularly in treating mood and anxiety disorders. It functions as a selective inhibitor of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), an enzyme responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids in the brain. By inhibiting FAAH, it increases the levels of endocannabinoids, which play a role in regulating mood, stress, and emotional responses. This mechanism makes it a promising candidate for addressing conditions such as social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. Clinical trials are ongoing to evaluate its efficacy and safety in these applications, with the aim of providing a novel treatment option for patients who do not respond well to existing therapies.